Is the Thought Worse than
the Deed?

Matthew 5:27-28

Jesus told His followers, "You have heard that it was said, 'Do not commit adultery.' But I tell you that anyone who looks at a woman lustfully has already committed adultery with her in his heart."

I don't know why others have trouble understanding this passage; it seems plain enough to me. However, not being a man, it's easy to dismiss this as not having any application to me.

Just a minute! Let's examine it for a principle, for we know that a principle applies across the line to other situations. Here it is shown in context with sexual desire and the breaking of a commandment. What if it applies in all our secret intentions?

Jesus is reminding His hearers that we're used to seeing judgment on those who do the sinful deed. He adds another dimension. He says those who just look with their eyes and desire in their hearts to do the adultery have as good as committed it.

He judges us by our intentions. All our intentions? Even our motives for doing good can be bad? Whoa!

Well, I can relax actually, because most of my intentions are quite good and noble. - Okay, there's a couple of little things I have trouble with... Are you thinking along these lines with me?

In the next two verses Jesus draws the lines even sharper, more pronounced; we're to deal with the root cause of our sins.

I don't know about you, but there are times when I'm so fed up and sick and tired of my sinful habits, that I would like some drastic measures to be rid of them. Let's agree with Jesus that there is a problem in our motives, and be open to His direct answer, although it may sound gruesome.

P.S. You will love Ruthe's Secret Roses if you like;
* walking and talking intimately with God
* stories of compassion and dramatic conversion
* have a bleeding, caring heart of your own
* are a caregiving older sister
* love designing clothes and make-overs
* love giving gifts and surprises
* are a mentor or counseling kind of friend.